'Hugh C. Bailey Science Center' will be new name for Valdosta StateUniversity's Biology/Chemistry Building

Valdosta State University, with approval from the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia, is naming the Biology/Chemistry Building the 'Hugh C. Bailey Science Center.' The action by the Board of Regents took place during its regular monthly meeting on October 12. Dr. Bailey, who engineered university status for VSU in the 1990's, was VSU's sixth president and served the institution with distinction for 23 years (1978-2001).

"Under Dr. Bailey's leadership, VSU experienced tremendous growth in enrollment, faculty, staff, and facilities," said current VSU President Dr. Ronald M. Zaccari. "Naming the Science Center after Dr. Bailey is a fitting tribute to a man who served VSU's students, faculty, staff, alumni and the community throughout the majority of his higher education career. Dr. Bailey has a profound sense of identification with the Biology/Chemistry Building," he added.

Construction of new facilities during Bailey's tenure exceeded $60 million, including the $22.4 million Biology/Chemistry Building. The 148,165 square-foot facility features a three-story atrium, 22 teaching and 19 research laboratories, two greenhouses, 11 classrooms, two auditoriums, two conference rooms, and 41 offices. The facility is designed to exemplify the concept that science is accessible, students are welcomed, and faculty and students are engaged in doing science.

Dr. Bailey has been recognized for his commitment to quality design and specifically his dedication to preserving the institution's unique Spanish Mission style of architecture. In his retirement, he and his wife Joan live in the city of Valdosta.

VSU officials are planning a formal naming ceremony for the 'Hugh C. Bailey Science Center' as part of the Centennial events during Spring Semester 2006, upon completion of the new Pedestrian Mall which will surround the building.